According to a statement from AERT, the employee passed away from his injuries after he was taken to the burn center at a hospital in Springfield, Mo.

An AERT spokesperson said the facility where the incident happened has been closed and there is an open investigation with local, state and federal officials. AERT confirmed there is no ongoing danger to the public and the other facilities are continuing operations.

Tim Morrison, AERT's President said, “We are providing support to families and associates to help them through this very difficult time.”

Firefighters said the blaze started in a mixing vat. Officials said the fire was tough to extinguish.

“It’s not as cut-and-dry as going in there and putting water on it,” said David Kissinger of Springdale Fire.

Three people taken to the hospital with burn injuries.

Of the three, two patients were flown to a Springfield hospital. The third patient was discharged Wednesday afternoon.

AERT released this statement following the incident.

Advanced Environmental Recycling Technologies, Inc. (AERT), a leading plastic recycler and manufacturer of green building products, experienced a fire at its Springdale North extrusion facility at approximately 2:40 PM this afternoon. Three associates were injured and transported to Northwest Medical Center in Springdale. Two of the associates have subsequently been transported to a regional burn center. ... At this point it appears that damage to the plant is minimal. The Springdale Fire Department will continue to monitor the situation. "The company is greatly appreciative of the quick response time and professionalism of the Springdale Fire Department. We are also appreciative of our AERT plant associates and their dedication to safety and the company," stated Joe G. Brooks, CEO.

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